NY Yankees keeping a close eye on closer Mariano Rivera

John Munson/The Star-LedgerYankees closer Mariano Rivera hasn't given up a run yet this postseason. NEW YORK -- Mariano Rivera, the Yankees indomitable closer, has appeared in seven games this postseason. He has pitched eight total innings and has yet to allow a run.

The team continues to monitor Rivera, 39, but manager Joe Girardi said he feels comfortable extending him for more than three outs per appearance. The team can do so after not needing Rivera in Game 4 of the ALCS.

"I talk to him," Girardi said. "I make sure that he's okay. He had two days off. And we knew he had another day off coming. But physically, he's doing very well right now."

Other relievers, from Joba Chamberlain to Alfredo Aceves to Phil Hughes, have struggled during the playoffs for the Yankees. But not Rivera. He gave the team distance in Game 2, securing seven outs, escaped a bases-loaded jam in Game 3 and kept the team alive in Game 5.

"This is his time," pitching coach Dave Eiland said. "This is when he's at his best."